Royal Television Society - Royal Television Society Bursary

RTS Bursary

You will receive an annual cash payment of at least about 1,700 EUR (1,500 GBP) per year, paid in February each year for the duration of your studies. This means for up to four years, depending on your course and the type of scholarship. Some named scholarships (Steve Hewlett, Beryl Vertue, Andy Taylor Foundation) pay approximately 2,900 EUR (2,500 GBP) per year instead. In addition to the funding, you’ll receive a free RTS membership for the duration of your studies and for one year afterwards. In your second or third year of study, you will also be assigned a personal mentor from the industry – an experienced professional who will advise you. You will have access to RTS events and film screenings, as well as free access to the RTS Mini-MBA after you graduate. Students on the ‘Digital Innovation’ programme also take part in a 10-day, funded excursion to companies in the technology, television and digital media sectors. The funding is provided by the Royal Television Society, a UK organisation that supports careers in television, film and digital media.

Who can apply

• Level: You are currently studying for, or applying for, a Bachelor’s degree or a National Diploma (HND) at level 5/6. Students on a Master’s degree programme are not eligible to apply.
• Timing: You still have at least two academic years ahead of you.
• Field of study: Your degree subject should relate to the fields of television production, journalism, film, the humanities and social sciences, or (for the ‘Digital Innovation’ specialisation) STEM, computer science, software development or digital media.
• Financial need: Your household has an annual pre-tax income of 35,000 GBP or less.
• Residence: You are considered a home student (Home/UK) for the purposes of Student Finance or an equivalent organisation. This usually requires British nationality or permanent residence in the United Kingdom.
• Where you study: Any British university is eligible. You do not need to be based in Scotland to apply for the STV-linked scholarships.

How to apply

You complete the online application form and provide the details of a reference – this should be a tutor or employer, not a family member or friend. You also upload examples of your work that demonstrate your creativity or your interest in the industry. Shortlisted applicants will take part in a short interview by telephone or via Zoom, and a panel of industry experts will make the final decision. The application period for the next round begins in February 2027.

How realistic are your chances?

The scholarship is aimed at a specific target group: low-income students from the UK who are aiming for a career in television and digital media. The pool of applicants is therefore smaller than for open scholarships. If you clearly meet the income threshold and residency requirements, are studying a relevant subject and can provide concrete examples of your work that reflect your interest, your chances are good. Compelling, authentic examples of your work are more important than a polished essay – so make sure these are convincing.